Open AccessHead drop and flaccid weakness in infantile nephrotic syndrome
Author(s) -
Gurdeep Singh Dhooria
Publication year - 2018
Publication title -
indian journal of nephrology/indian journal of nephrology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.317
H-Index - 24
eISSN - 1998-3662
pISSN - 0971-4065
DOI - 10.4103/ijn.ijn_198_16
Subject(s) - medicine , hypokalemia , hypomagnesemia , weakness , diarrhea , pediatrics , nephrotic syndrome , muscle weakness , surgery , magnesium , materials science , metallurgy
Dropped head syndrome (DHS) is a relatively rare condition, with a broad differential diagnosis. We report here a case of infantile nephrotic syndrome with DHS caused by severe hypokalemia. Electrocardiogram showed flat T- and U-waves. Multiple factors including recurrent diarrhea, prolonged diuretic and corticosteroid use, hypomagnesemia, poor intake, and malnutrition caused hypokalemia in the case. Head drop and flaccid weakness resolved completely after potassium and magnesium supplementation. Potassium levels should be monitored and corrected promptly in these settings.